What is the 'ISDN Switch-off'?
You might already have heard that the UK’s Public Switch Telephone Network (PSTN) is being switched off in December 2025.
This affects everyone.
The old, analogue PSTN can’t keep up with the demands of modern communication, so the switch to fully digital will mark a big step forward.
Put simply, everything will use the internet.
But it’s not just our phone lines that will be affected by the PSTN switch-off. Any equipment that also uses PSTN will stop working too. That could be your alarm systems, cameras, fax machines (yes some are still in use!), even door entry systems and EPOS machines.
You may also need to update your broadband and some of your other hardware.
Of course, you’ll still need phone lines for your business. That will mean switching to a digital technology, like a VoIP (Voice Over the Internet) phone system.
If you haven’t already switched to fibre broadband, you’ll need to consider this now, if your area is covered. Fibre is being rolled out across the country right now, so it shouldn’t be long till you have access, if you don’t already.
It’s important to keep in mind that traditional phone lines no longer offer the call quality or reliability they once did.
Digital phone systems adapt better to modern ways of working. You can make or take calls in the office, at home or on the road – all with the same number.
Research suggests that switching to fibre will also help connect rural and more isolated communities, with a big boost to productivity.
What’s more, digital phone lines will be supported by more devices, and boast improved security, keeping your business better protected from cyber attacks.
This might feel like another thing to add to your to-do list, but it actually comes with a lot of benefits.
The benefits of going digital
First things first, it’s likely you’ll save money.
Line rental is a lot cheaper for digital phone systems like VoIP, and they’re more cost-effective to run. That’s because you only pay for what you use, adding new lines as and when you need to.
VoIP systems (Voice Over Internet Protocol, if you’re interested) are also more reliable than traditional phone lines. They won’t be disrupted when there are updates, they won’t go down in high winds, and you don’t have to worry so much about physical lines being damaged. Everything is done over the internet, so, if that’s running, your phones will be, too. Better still, if you are working with a good internet connection (which you should be!), your call quality will vastly improve over analogue calls.
VoIP phones are better suited to the way we work today. With many of us having hybrid workforces, it means not everyone is in the office every day.
VoIP numbers aren’t fixed to a location, which means people can have a phone in their home office if they want to. But also, calls can be easily directed to other devices, so wherever your people work from, they can be reached through by phone.
There are still more call options on VoIP systems, which all help to build a better customer experience. There are better options for call forwarding when lines are busy, better hold options, and plenty of conferencing features.
Another thing you’ll need to consider is whether you need to upgrade your internet connection. Broadband is changing to full fibre connections, which are a lot faster and more reliable. This also works to improve productivity and efficiency in your business.
Beat the last minute rush
With the final switch-off due in December 2025, time is of the essence if you need to plan for a change.
By making the switch sooner rather than later, you’ll benefit from additional months of cost savings and business improvements.
It might feel like a lot to get to grips with the right solutions for your business – but we do this all the time for our customers, and we’re here to help. ,
So get in touch. We’d be happy to talk you through your options and give you all the advice you need to make a smooth, seamless switch.